(ARA)- Every January, research firms release their predictions on trends for the coming year. From the top 10 retail trends for 2008 to the latest environmental and technology trends, these reports share one central theme: change is constant and there's no way to avoid it.
Change is inevitable and unfortunately, dealing with this reality isn't easy for everyone. However, those people who do adapt and embrace change are more likely to achieve their goals and dreams.
In order to help others lead a more meaningful life, several award-winning authors and regular contributors to www.yesyoucanonline.info are sharing insights on how to accept and cope with change. According to Jack Jonathan and Sheelagh Manheim Ph.D., authors of "Yes, You Can... Find More Meaning In Your Life," and Jim Stowers, author of the soon-to-be-published "Yes, You Can... Reach Your Goals and Achieve Your Dreams," the desire to maintain the status quo causes some people to fight against change and the uncertainty it brings. Yet, one of the great advantages of the human race is the ability to adapt and prepare for change.
"It's common to resist change," says Jonathan. "Staying with what's comfortable and familiar keeps us connected to our past. But we shouldn't lose sight of the exciting opportunities for growth and new experiences that change brings. Being open to new ideas is one important ingredient for living a meaningful life and achieving our goals."
Making a change is often a leap of faith -- a risk. The best method for achieving success with this inevitable change, according to Jonathan and Manheim, is to properly prepare for it. The following seven steps provide suggestions on ways to open your mind to change.
1. Collect facts about what is changing. How will making this change affect you? What is the ultimate outcome that will make you happiest?
2. Evaluate the risks. What can go wrong by making this change? How can you be negatively affected? What's the worst-case scenario?
3. Decide how you will deal with the risks. Once you've identified the risks, figure out a solution for each one.
4. Make a commitment to persevere. Consider writing down your commitment to change, such as a contract you are making with yourself. Keep it in a location where you will see it regularly to remind yourself.
5. Define the small steps that will help you reach your goal. View the change as a series of small steps instead of one large one. This attitude will help you achieve many milestones and will give you a positive attitude.
6. Reevaluate the progress you have made. Be flexible along the way and make adjustments that you'll need to ensure success, and achieve your dreams.
7. Reward yourself for each accomplishment. Celebrate smaller milestones and keep track of the progress you've made.
While the constant ebb and flow of change may cause some people to feel anxious or uncertain, Stowers believes that those who adapt and prepare for change can use it as one of life's great motivators.
"A person who can adapt will naturally be more successful with the ups and downs life offers. This makes them more likely to achieve their goals and dreams," says Stowers. "Preparing for change is an essential skill that allows us to connect with our family, friends, job and life. It's also what helps us see that change happens as a challenge. Then, rather than seeing it as something stressful, you can look at it as an opportunity to achieve something unique and fantastic."
For more ideas on dealing with change and other ways to lead a more meaningful life, visit yesyoucanonline.info.